Many pupils come from low-income families or are newcomers. That is why, three years ago, the school started offering a free breakfast in cooperation with the municipality, the Red Cross and supermarket Aldi. This was later followed by a healthy hot lunch, school fruit and an expansion of sports activities. The aim was not only to provide healthy food, but also to relieve parents, create calm and contribute to equal opportunities.
For lunch, the school works with Tommy Tomato, which supplies healthy, hot meals. Although not every child appreciates the lunch straight away — especially older pupils who are used to different eating habits — the school continues to stand by this provision. Funding comes from various sources, including the School Meals Programme and contributions from religious organisations.
Exercise also receives considerable attention. Since 2023, there have been active afternoon breaks with football, handball and other activities. Participation is voluntary; children choose what they want to do. After school, there is an hour of sports activities every day, organised by a group of teachers in cooperation with sports clubs. In addition, the municipality offers neighbourhood-based sports activities. The school helps pupils who want to participate in sports elsewhere with registration and funding through, among others, Stichting Leergeld and the Youth Education Fund.
The results are positive: children start the day calmer and more focused, are more active during lessons and feel more self-confident. Exercise contributes to enjoyment, relaxation and connection. On the sports field, language barriers fade away, which is especially important for newcomers.
The approach has also led to greater parental involvement. Parents appreciate the provision and contribute as volunteers, for example in the Parents’ Room. Claudia sees this cooperation as a key to success. Her tips for other schools: create support within the team and among the management, and be patient. Investing in nutrition and exercise is a long-term endeavour, but it helps break vicious cycles of poverty and unhealthy habits. In this way, De Regenboog gives its pupils more opportunities for a healthy, stable future.
This is a summary. Read the full article on the website of the Healthy Primary School of the Future.
Would you also like children to be better at maths, feel mentally fitter and be healthier? Join the Healthy Primary School of the Future movement! Already 1,000 schools have gone before you with healthy lunches, snacks and more exercise. Every school can take steps that suit its own situation. Are you a principal, teacher, physical education teacher or coordinator and would you like to participate or share your experiences? Contact us – together, we can ensure equal opportunities and a healthy future for every child!